The Honourable John Olsen, AO

The Honourable John Olsen, AO

The Honourable John Olsen AO is Chairman of the American Australian Association Ltd., Chairman of the Perth USAsia Centre at The University of Western Australia and board member of the United States Studies Centre at The University of Sydney.

Mr Olsen spent almost 7 years in the United States, as Consul General in New York (2006-2009), and as Consul General in Los Angeles (2002-2006). Prior to his diplomatic postings, he was Premier of South Australia (1996-2001), capping a long and distinguished career in the political arena, including a period as Senator for South Australia (1990-1992).

Mr Olsen pioneered G’day USA in 2004, a week-long programme showcasing the best of Australia. The programme expanded to New York in 2007 and has become the largest single annual foreign country promotion in the United States.

He was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2007 for his outstanding contributions to the South Australian Parliament.